FDA Maintains Insulin Theft Alert

The U.S. FDA warns the public that there is a potential for stolen long-acting insulin Levemir, produced by Novo Nordisk Inc, to still be active on the market.

Based on the FDA’s evidence, their proof suggests that the stolen insulin was improperly stored and handled, leaving the public vulnerable to risk.  Many patients have informed the FDA of adverse side effects they experienced after using a vial from the stolen group, their glucose levels were incorrectly managed.

Since the FDA’s original warning of the insulin theft was made in June, only two percent of the 129,00 vials of Levemir has been retrieved.

As the FDA maintains their aggressive investigation and they recommend that all Levemir patients:

Check your current stock of insulin to verify whether you have Levemir insulin from one of the following lots: XZF0036; XZF0037; XZF0038.  You can find the lot number on the side of the insulin box as well as on the side of the vial.

If your insulin originates from one of these lots do not use it! Exchange it with a vial of Levemir from another lot.  If you must change to another insulin brand, do not do so before contacting your health care practioner, as you may require dosage modifications.